A career as a research technician can be extremely rewarding and provides the opportunity for individuals to contribute to a variety of scientific research projects. Becoming a research technician requires an extensive knowledge of a variety of scientific concepts and processes, as well as the ability to conduct experiments in a laboratory environment. For those interested in pursuing a career in research, it is important to understand the various steps that must be taken in order to become a successful research technician. In this blog post, we will discuss the educational and professional requirements, as well as the skills and knowledge required to become a research technician. We will also discuss some tips and tricks to help you succeed in this field. With the right combination of dedication and determination, you can become a successful research technician and contribute to the advancement of scientific knowledge.
- Choose a specific field of study. You can choose from many research technician fields based on your interests, including: …
- Complete your education. …
- Gain laboratory experience. …
- Get certified.
What does a research technician do?
A research technician’s main responsibility is to support scientists in the lab. Depending on the sector or specialized field of study, tasks change. They are typically in charge of the following duties, regardless of the scientific field they work in:
What is a research technician?
In a lab, a research technician or lab assistant assists a scientist with research and experimentation. They are well-versed in lab techniques and tools and strictly adhere to safety rules while working
How to become a research technician
Here are the fundamental steps you can take to become a research technician if you’re interested in pursuing a career in that field:
1. Choose a specific field of study
Based on your interests, you can select from a variety of research technician fields, including:
2. Complete your education
Before working in laboratories, employers demand that research technicians complete two years of specialized training. The majority of science associate degrees emphasize courses in math, chemistry, biology, and computer science. You could also enroll in courses and carry out lab work related to the area of science you want to focus on.
To advance their knowledge in their fields, many research technicians pursue higher education, such as bachelor’s or master’s degrees. You might be more employable and competitive as a candidate if you have a higher degree.
3. Gain laboratory experience
Gaining practical experience as soon as possible can help you become eligible for more positions. Additionally, some technician certifications demand lab experience before you can take the test. There may be research or laboratory requirements for your degree, allowing you to gain experience. To begin establishing professional connections, you can also look for internship opportunities with research firms that interest you.
4. Get certified
You might need to obtain a certification in order to work as a research technician. The American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP) and the American Association of Bioanalysts (AAB) are the two primary certifying organizations.
The AAB offers five certifications for technicians or technologists:
You must have at least an Associate of Applied Science and pass the exam in order to obtain any of these certifications.
The ASCP also has five certifications for technicians:
There are various educational and lab experience requirements for each certification, and you also need to pass an exam. Before submitting an application to take the exam for the certification you want, research the requirements.
Average salary and job outlook of a research technician
Unless their research requires them to examine events outside of a lab, research technicians typically work in labs. Some research technicians work in hospitals. They spend the majority of their days in a lab standing or moving around. When handling potentially hazardous materials, many research technicians also put on personal protection gear like gloves and goggles.
Skills for a research technician
To succeed as a research technician, you may want to develop the following abilities:
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Career Spotlight: Research Technician
FAQ
Is a research technician a scientist?
No, a research technician is not a scientist. The primary distinction between a research technician and a scientist is that the former conducts research and develops new methodologies, while the latter puts those methodologies into practice.
What are the duties of a research technician?
Research technicians collect data and order inventory. They carry out experiments and help researchers with the more useful aspects of daily work. They compile, decipher, and document pertinent research and data, run and maintain lab and computer systems, and examine particular substances.
What comes after research technician?
A Research Technician can use our career map to determine their career objectives by following the career progression. They might begin with a position like “Research Associate,” advance to “Research Scientist,” and finally receive the title “Senior Scientist,” for instance.
